Natural Herbs for Depression

Depression is state of mind, characterized by aversion from social activities and overwhelming sadness. Among many psychological and physiological factors of depression, certain brain chemicals too, manipulate the state of mind. Change in dietary intake, low self-esteem, irregular sleep patterns, persistent feeling of guilt, anxiety, fear, helplessness, hopelessness, significant gain in weight, or considerable loss of weight are some of the distinct symptoms of depression. Sometimes, all these depression symptoms, are a result of change or imbalance of brain chemicals, which aggravate the state of depression. Natural herbs for depression, have a holistic approach in treating your condition. Additionally, natural herbs for depression are inexpensive as compared to the depression medications that are prescribed.

Natural Herbs for Depression

St. John's Wort
St. John's Wort has been used to treat depression and anxiety since a very long time. Herbalists have since ancient times used this tiny yellow flower to treat many depression patients. Hypericin, a single compound of the herb is beneficial for treating problems of anxiety, depression, helplessness, hopelessness, worthlessness, exhaustion and headache. On the plus side, St John's Wort has few side effects. Make a tea of herbs, by boiling 2 teaspoons of dried St John's Wort in a cup of water for ten minutes. Have two cups a days for 4-6 weeks, for best results.

Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba, has been used in the traditional Chinese medicines as healing herbs for depression. The leaves of Ginkgo are especially used to reduce the flow of blood to the brain. It improves the cerebral circulation, which benefits depression. Ginkgo does not particularly help depression, but it works for uplifting the mood.

Passionflower
Passionflower has traditionally been used as a sedative. This is one of the natural herbs for depression and anxiety symptoms. It has a tranquilizing effect on the nervous system, which soothes a person and helps him/her to sleep better. This is the best herb to treat insomnia and can be taken with Valerian. This calming herb reduces the activity of certain brain cells, which provides relaxation and uplifts the mood.

Valerian Root
Valerian root is known to work the best for depression. One of the natural herbs for depression, it is used in making Valium pills. It provides relief from insomnia, stress, anxiety, nervousness and restlessness. It is used to suppress ADHD and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which benefits depression.

Siberian Ginseng
Siberian ginseng, is another herb used in treating depression and anxiety. It improves balance of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. This herb helps the body to adapt to physical stress. Ginseng, strengthens the immune system, which keeps the body fit and fine. A healthy body always has a healthy mind, which keeps depression at bay.

Kava Herb
Known as Kava Kava, this herb is meant to counter terrible phases of depression. The infusion of this herb is used to make tea, which has an intoxicating effect. However, if it is consumed in moderation, it can be used as one of the anxiety cures. Kava Kava, induces dreamless sleep, allowing the person the wake up with a fresh start. A restful sleep, makes the person feel relaxed and reduces other effects like high heartbeat rate and irregular breathing patterns. All of this culminates into good health, which keeps the mind in a sound state.

Natural herbs for depression can have side effects if they are consumed in excess proportion. They could have a euphoric effect on the person. Thus, before you try any of this, do consult a doctor. To conclude, let me tell you, that depression is just a state of mind. If your mind has known happiness once, it can find it once again. Just give pursuit of happiness a chance. Stay happy!